Cedar Lake

Five minutes south of Carbondale is the city reservoir, Cedar Lake a 1,750-acre reservoir in Southern Illinois that was created by the damming of Cedar Creek, a tributary of the Big Muddy River in 1974. The lake is located in Jackson County, southwest of Carbondale and accessible from U.S. Highway 51. The lake was constructed for the purpose of supplying tap water to the residents of Carbondale. Cedar Lake is also open to kayaking, canoeing and fishing.

The City owns and maintains a public beach and boat dock at Cedar Lake. The beach is best known for its family atmosphere and beautiful scenery and fishermen enjoy regular success reeling in crappie and bass amid the beautiful coves surrounded by towering bluffs. The north access features several dramatic rock bluffs and secluded bays. Other lakes nearby include Little Grassy Lake, Devils Kitchen Lake, Crab Orchard Lake, and Kinkaid Lake.

Archery Deer Hunting Season

Archery deer hunting is the only hunting allowed at Cedar Lake, but it's not permitted during the two shotgun seasons. View the hunting fact sheet (PDF).

City of Carbondale Poplar Camp Beach

If the heat and humidity is getting to you this summer, try cooling off in the refreshing water of Cedar Lake at Poplar Camp Beach. Information about the beach includes:

Located a few miles south of Carbondale

A swim, play and floating areas, plus a swim lap lane are provided

Certified Red Cross lifeguards are on duty

Hours of Operation are 9:30a.m. - 5:30p.m. on weekdays and 9:30a.m. - 7p.m. on weekends and holidays

Restrooms, picnic tables and a concessions are available

Single day admission: $2.50

Children 4 years of age and younger are admitted free

Ten visit pass $20 or twenty visit pass $35

Passes purchased are good for the current beach season

Directions to the Lake

The lake is located south of Carbondale. To drive to Cedar Lake, take U.S. 51 south to the intersection of Old and New U.S. 51, follow Old U.S. 51 approximately .5 mile to Cedar Creek Road, travel west on Cedar Creek Road about a mile and follow the signs to the beach on Poplar Camp Road or for the boat ramp at the end of Cedar Creek Road.